What is transduction in the context of sensory systems?

Transduction refers specifically to the process by which sensory receptors convert physical stimuli from the environment, such as light, sound, or pressure, into electrical signals that can be processed by the nervous system. This fundamental mechanism allows the brain to interpret and respond to various forms of sensory input, ultimately creating our perceptions of the world around us.

For instance, in the visual system, photoreceptors in the retina transduce light waves into neural signals, enabling the perception of images. Similarly, in the auditory system, hair cells in the cochlea convert sound vibrations into electrical impulses. This conversion is crucial for all sensory modalities, as it is the initial step in the sensory processing pathway that enables further interpretation and response to stimuli. Therefore, identifying transduction as the conversion of physical stimuli into electrical signals accurately captures its essential role in sensory systems.